Firearm Competency Handgun Knowledge

Question 1

Which of these is a common type of handgun action?

Accepted Answer

A semi-automatic pistol

Answer

Handguns are typically revolvers or semi-automatic pistols. Bolt, pump and lever actions are associated with rifles and shotguns.

Question 2

Where is the ammunition held in a typical semi-automatic pistol?

Accepted Answer

In a detachable magazine

Answer

A semi-automatic pistol feeds cartridges from a detachable box magazine, usually housed in the grip, into the chamber as each round is fired.

Question 3

How does a revolver store its cartridges?

Accepted Answer

In a rotating cylinder

Answer

A revolver holds its cartridges in a rotating cylinder, which indexes a fresh round in line with the barrel each time the action is cycled.

Question 4

What does the term 'calibre' refer to on a handgun?

Accepted Answer

The diameter of the bore and matching cartridge

Answer

Calibre describes the internal diameter of the barrel's bore and, by extension, the size of cartridge the firearm is designed to fire, such as 9mm or .38 Special.

Question 5

What is the purpose of the safety catch on a pistol?

Accepted Answer

To help prevent the firearm from firing unintentionally

Answer

A manual safety is a mechanical device intended to reduce the risk of an unintentional discharge, but it never replaces safe handling and trigger discipline.

Firearm Competency Test

Firearm Competency Test

Firearm Competency Handgun Knowledge